AUGUST 2023
WHAT'S GOING ON IN SECONDARY SCIENCE?
JORDAN SCHOOL DISTRICT
WELCOME BACK!
Here is to a fantastic summer! We hope you were able to get a little rest and relaxation (as well as some fun)!
CONTACT YOUR SECONDARY SCIENCE SPECIALIST
I am happy to support any science instruction you may need!
TORI JOHNSON
VICTORIA.JOHNSON@JORDANDISTRICT.ORG
801.567.8466
ACTION ITEMS
Don't Forget Your Yearly Safety Training!
Due: December 31st, 2023
Estimated Completion Time: 30 min
If you get stuck or have any questions, please contact Tori Johnson at victoria.johnson@jordandistrict.org.
UPCOMING EVENTS & OPPORTUNITIES
August 15th District-Wide Professional Development!
We are trying something new! On August 15th all secondary science teachers will meet at Copper Hills High School for a secondary science-specific professional development. There will be a keynote speaker as well as workshops according to grade level! Click the link below to see more.
UtSTA 2023 Fall Conference,
"Science for All"
"Science for All"
September 15, 2023 @ Davis Conference Center
Keynote: Temple Grandin
TEACHER SPOTLIGHTS
7-8th Grade: Tiffani Martin
7TH & 8TH GRADE SCIENCE | KELSEY PEAK MIDDLE SCHOOL
"Tiffani Martin is incredible. Her love for science oozes through her lessons, and the kids love her in-person labs. They nerd out with her when she dresses up as the Onceler, and they/we don't judge her when she shares her solid imperturbable addiction to rocks. She implements the scientific method in everything we do and is not afraid to ask difficult questions. She loves the students, is a kind friend to our team, and helps make Kelsey Peak amazing. Mrs. Martin, you rock!"
Spencer Campbell, Principal of Kelsey Peak Middle School
What do you love about science teaching or what made you want to be a science teacher?
I love creating experiences and opportunities for students to engage in the natural world around them and not even realize they are rocking science. My favorite moment is when a student tells me that they used to hate science and now it’s their favorite class.
What are some of your hobbies and/or how do you like to spend your time outside of teaching?
Outside of the classroom I like to ski, be outside with my family and dog, explore and travel. I like to look for rocks with my geologist husband. I spend a lot of time at my kids sporting events: soccer, football and karate. I like to train my rescue dog - he’s a work in progress.
What's the best advice or mantra you live by for your teaching?
The hardest kids need you the most and will appreciate you the most (although it may not be this year).
9-12th Grade: Kate Hendrickson
PHYSICS | COPPER HILLS HIGH
"Kate is an outstanding human being with a love for life and a passion for living. She exudes passion and excitement with her friendly smile, personability, and energy. In addition, she has a strong desire to become the very best teacher she can be for her students. Kate values relationships, student engagement, expectations, and accountability in her classroom. One of the keys to Kate's success and her love for teaching is that she gets involved. She not only teaches in the Science Department, but she is very engaged with her fellow teachers throughout the school and also coaches Girl's Tennis and ESports. Kate contributes to a positive work environment and the unity of the school. While occasionally mistaken for a student, she is a great leader, mentor, coach, and teacher to her students."
Bryan Veazie, Previous Principal at Copper Hills High School
"She is highly energetic and can do dance, sports (she is our tennis coach), and of course physics and math. She is very nice to everyone and has a big heart. She loves animals, she does esports very well, and she can do anything she puts her mind to. We love her in our department."
Mary Meyer, a fellow teacher at Copper Hills High School
What do you love about science teaching or what made you want to be a science teacher?
My passion for teaching high school science comes from my wonder of the universe. I love getting to be alongside students as they start to pay more attention to the world around them and ask “what if” and “why.”
What are some of your hobbies and/or how do you like to spend your time outside of teaching?
At the school, I also coach Girl's Tennis, E-sports, and Ballroom which are 3 of my biggest hobbies. I love getting to embrace all of the things I love at work as a teacher! I also love animals and have 3 gerbils.
What's the best advice or mantra you live by for your teaching?
My best teaching/coaching advice is to have self-compassion and remember you don’t have to be “the best” or know every answer to be a good leader. The best teachers and coaches are guides to others who recognize their own limits but simultaneously help others exceed theirs.
THOUGHTS ON SCIENCE INSTRUCTION
Teaching in the Day of AI
We are now in the time of AI... how is this going to affect our students and our classrooms?! Here is a peek into the world of AI and how you can incorporate it into your classroom. See the resources section below to see more AI education resources.
Scientific and Engineering Practices in K-12 Classrooms
UNDERSTANDING A FRAMEWORK FOR K-12 SCIENCE EDUCATION
We've all seen the book... it's big, it's dense, and it's intimidating, but have you ever actually opened it up? This article explains why taking a look at the framework may just be worth your time!
CONTENT RESOURCES
All Secondary Science
JSD Secondary Science Teacher Directory
Use this directory to see or contact secondary science teachers throughout the district. If you notice any incorrect information on the directory, please contact Tori Johnson at victoria.johnson@jordandistrict.org
New Project in Progress: Science & Engineering Practice Protocols!
Are you having a hard time teaching the Science and Engineering Practices in your class?! We have been developing new high school protocols and graphic organizers that you can use in your classroom for free! Print or use them digitally! Most of the protocols are complete for high school, but keep in mind these are still being written and revised!
If you notice any issues or have any suggestions, please email Tori Johnson at victoria.johnson@jordandistrict.org.
We also have K-8 Science & Engineering Practice and 7-8 Science & Writing Protocols finished!
MIT's Open Source Day of AI and RAISE Programs
MIT had developed some wonderful resources to help with teachers transitioning to the classroom that includes AI. Day of AI is a program that provides curriculum and instruction to teachers and students on how to teach and learn with AI. MIT's Responsible AI for Social Empowerment and Education (RAISE) provides even more information and resources.
Science Teacher Podcasts
Want to get some new ideas or inspiration for science instruction? Check out these science and science education podcasts!
CURRICULUM QUICK LINKS
SCIENCE TEACHER STRESS RELIEF
Teacher Survival Resources
Shame in the Workplace & Classroom
Have you ever felt like everything is crashing down on you? Have you ever felt shame for something that has happened in your career as an educator? Brene Brown has continued research on shame and vulnerability that could directly impact your ability as a teacher. Check it out below!
Cultivating Resiliency
As educators, it is important that we stay resilient! Our jobs are difficult and stressful, but the more resilient we are the more we can enjoy our jobs to the fullest extent. Check out the resources below to find out how to build your resiliency.
Science Teacher Funnies
